Wednesday, 8 July 2015

Cambridges Courtside for Wimbledon Quarter-finals!

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge enjoyed an afternoon of exciting tennis at Wimbledon.

Following Princess Charlotte's christening on Sunday, William and Kate were all smiles upon arrival. The couple took their seats in the Royal Box at Centre Court for the gentlemen's quarter-finals.

Avid tennis fans William and Kate are also keen players and are said to enjoy nothing more than a game filled with friendly competition on court. At last year's Wimbledon final the Duchess told Novak Djokovic she was "out of practice since having George". Clearly eager to practice their game, the couple plan to replace the existing court at Anmer Hall which has fallen into disrepair with a new court further away from their house which will improve views.

The Cambridges cheered on British number one Andy Murray who competed against big-serving Canadian Vasek Pospisil as he attempted to reach his sixth semi-final at the tournament. Andy Murray became the first British man to win the tournament in more than 70 years when he claimed the title in 2013.

Wimbledon

It's been a joyous year for Andy Murray, who married his long-time love Kim Sears in Dunblane Cathedral in April. Kim has become something of a fashion icon for her chic courtside style - often pairing high street with designer much like the Duchess. She selected a bespoke Jenny Packham gown for her wedding day.

An aerial view of the courts.

Wimbledon Facebook Page

Kate's parents Michael and Carole Middleton were also there today.

There's been plenty of talk surrounding the possibility Kate will succeed the Queen as patron of Wimbledon in years to come - and I think it would be an ideal fit given her passion for the sport. The Queen has been patron for decades now, electing to only visit twice as she's not a lover of the sport.

Also today, we wanted to share yesterday's events commemorating the tenth anniversary of the 7/7 bombings. A minute's silence was observed in honour of those who lost their lives, wreaths were laid at the memorial in Hyde Park, and a service took place at St Paul's Cathedral.

'London was still celebrating the news that it had one the right to host the 2012 Olympic games when its was plunged into the worst terror attack ever to happen on British soil.

At 8:49 am, three bombs were detonated on two Circle line Tubes and a Piccadilly line train within fifty seconds of each other. Almost an hour later, a fourth bomb was detonated on the top deck of the number 30 bus in Tavistock Square, ripping off its roof.

Twenty-six people died in the bombing at Russell Square on the Piccadilly line while seven died in the Aldgate Circle line bombing and six died at Edgware Road. A total of 13 people died in the bus bomb. Tragically, train delays meant several victims died aboard trains and buses they would not normally have taken.'

William's wreath read, "In memory of those who lost their lives and those injured in the atrocities of 7th July 2005".

Attendees heard an emotional speech by Emma Craig, who was just 14 when the attacks happened. Back to the Express:

'The Duke of Cambridge looked close to tears as he embraced Emma Craig, who told mourners at a poignant service in Hyde Park: "It may not have broken London, but it did break some of us." She was just 14 when she was caught up in the bombing at Aldgate tube station whilst on her way to a work experience placement.

During a harrowing speech in the shadow of the 7/7 memorial which moved her audience to tears, Ms Craig said her life had never been the same again since the attack.She said: "All of us lost our innocence on that day, our naivety, the thought that 'something like that could never happen to me' or even to London.

"I struggled a lot afterwards because I was scared of being weak and admitting I wasn't fine, even at such a young age - a feeling most people here today will have felt in some way or other.'

After hearing her speak, Prince William hugged Emma.

Speaking to survivors and those who lost family members in the attacks William said, "I know about loss. It helps to talk to people".

First, I must say your blog is excellent and I think the best of its kind on the web. I only started reading them in last year and you are lightning fast, thorough, and seem quite objective and reasonable in your coverage. Well done.Now on to this... Kate looks lovely but dare I say getting a little boring? The look is quite predictable, different colors trotted out but generally same style. I would love to see something a little more exciting, youthful... something! It's lovely, but increasingly dull. Too safe to stand out, which yes I know, may not be her cup of tea, but as a fashion observer I'd love to see a little more oomph!

I think they watch the less interesting match from tennis point of view, obviously they are happy to be there. I agree with your fashion statement. We have seen this red dress before, only the length is surprising. I prefer Sophie's outfit today. Certainly Kate looks tired, seems like Charlotte isnt a good sleeper. She sported bangs again I am undecided.

On a more serious note, yesterday was a really sad day. I remember watching the news 10 years ago, I would have never thought we gonna have so much violence in the world like today back then. My thought and prayers for all.

I agree anon 15:00. She looks fabulous as she always does but I want her to look like a princess not an average woman. I would love to see her amp it up a bit. The dress is lovely but how about one of her stylized ponytails with it? A piece of statement jewelry would look great as well - larger earrings or a chunky bracelet. I love the DVF purse and would be interested to see what shoes she is wearing. I really enjoy her "Duchess" moments in clothes but they are few and far between because, unfortunately (for me :-) ), it's just not her style.

Yes Erika, all good points! (anon 15:00 here!) I am probably older than most :) so I thought of a red dress Diana wore to Wimbledon in early 90's I think.. she was probably about Kate's age at time. It was sleeveless, fitted, some gold tone buttons, with big gold bracelet to match. Just a little more flirty and summery and sexy for a young woman. I'd like to see more fitted cuts, more details, more of a statement. And no, I'm not comparing her to Diana, I know she's not Diana, but "the only power the royals have left is the power to disappoint" The BRF has to dazzle a little, has to sprinkle a little magic if they want to survive.

You guys, Kate is not a fashion icon. I really don't think it interests her. She has all of the resources in the world at her fingertips, so if she cared about being cutting edge, I think we'd see more of that from her. I'm getting tired of seeing all of the "she's so boring!!" comments around because it just doesn't make sense. She's not out to dazzle anybody. If you want fashion, maybe it's time to read about somebody else and stop disappointing yourselves over and over.

Yes, I remember the red dress you're talking about anon 15:00. The whole look was simple but it popped. I think Diana wasn't afraid to showcase a little bit of sex appeal but Kate seems reticent to do that of late. She just seems to want to be safe and appropriate which does come across as dull and boring. I'm eternally optimistic though. Waiting for her to thrill me!

I agree Paige. She looks pretty and well dressed and I like her style. But dripping in jewels and dress edgy she does not, and I don't see why she has to! People are trying to make her into so many things, most of them taken from what Diana did. Diana pushed the envelope, that doesn't mean that Kate has to. She seems a more comfortable, homebody, sporty kind of girl and I like that she is herself! I would never want to put her in a role as a fashion icon if she herself isn't reaching for that role. She can look nice in her pretty brittish garments and give a boost to those brands. That's enough for me!

Paige if she wasn't interested in fashion, she wouldn't spend so much money on clothing. $425 for a polyester dress styled like 1995? She has plenty of other things in her many wardrobes, but she keeps shopping.

Close to perfection but a few subtracting details. Much prefer DofC to Sophie's outfit, far more flattering. The bags under her eyes may have been less visible if she hadn't underlined them with so much black -extremely aging. Shorter hair -how could anyone tell -about 10 inches off would by itself make this perfection.

Paige, I sort of agree with you. I really think she is trying NOT to be Diana. A lesson from the past has been learned. Her husband is heir to the throne and she is trying to compliment him not be the center of attention. I actually like this dress and how it fits and shows off her figure well in a modest way. Yes, she could have accessorized with a necklace or pin, but she chose not to and that's OK with me. Maybe she didn't think it was an event that called for jewelry - either way it's her choice and I respect whatever she chooses.

I certainly don't compare her to Diana, Bunny. They are like apples and oranges. However, I would like to see the Kate of 2011-2013 emerge again. What she wore then looked youthful and was interesting. So, I actually believe she has it in her to dress in a more fashion forward way.

Sophie's dress is lovely. I really do like it. But if the situation was reversed, and Kate had worn it while Sophie was in red, the comments would be reversed as well. Folks would be pointing to Sophie as an example for Kate to follow....someone who is on trend and isn't afraid of color.

I'm not sure about that royalfan. This dress wouldn't have looked great on Sophie either unless she styled it in a completely different way. The red was fine for Wimbledon. The dress was just a big yawn imo.

Kate not a fashion Icon?She is whether she wants to be or not.Clothing she wears sells out. People have blogs just waiting to see what she wore. News article typically describe her outfit somewhere in their narratives. Isn't all that being a fashion Icon.

I agree about William. When I saw the "I know about loss. It helps to talk to people.". Not only because of his loss, but because he's breaking the royal familys tradioton of "keep quiet and move on". He is accknowledging the need to speak about tradgedies and that seemed really poignant to me!

And that HUG! Such a comforting and personal hug! I bet that meant alot!

I know this may sound silly to some but I am so glad to see them both wearing sunglasses! That said, they really do look happy and totally enjoying themselves. I like HRH in red, and whatever she has done to her hair....it simply suits her. I don't think we'll ever see HRH dressed with "oomph" (love that expression) of years past, but as far as I can remember, she has always looked amazing. William absolutely has Diana's heart. You can't fake this kindness that he has about him. He will be an awesome KING! Thank you Charlotte, as always, you do bring us the best of TRH.

Bella, lovely post. I agree.Kate always looks nice 99% of the time. (who else can you say that about?) :)The fashionista in me would have liked to see her accessorize the dress more and a ponytail would have been really cute if worn at the right position. Sometimes she wears her ponytail a little too low and it can look frumpy rather than flirty and more sassy.That being said, I don't want her dressing younger per se unless she maintains the classy look she has. A lot of youthful fashion today, if not done right, can look a little slutty, for lack of a more appropriate description.And William certainly has compassion and the commonwealth will benefit greatly from that. It already has. That photo of him hugging that girl brought tears to my eyes. (And he wasn't doing it for pr, so don't even start anyone.) you know, old school you weren't even supposed to touch a Royal. Things are already changing and for the better.

Totally off topic but I thought I should share what I have read in connection with media and how many photographers were actually there at the christening. All info come from Mark Cuthbert who is a royal photographer. So according to him, only 6 of them were allowed to take pictures, 2 of them were from the local media. KP gave out the permissions. So they were pretty disappointed especially as you may know the royal couple wanted to share this moment with the public and the media I suppose. After reading this I am not suprised at the lack of coverage on telly and also at the following to come..... Certain sentences were uttered like: the gloves are off around Anmer and so on. It seems like the mutual respect thing will not work here.

I saw that "rant". The photographers were just pissy that they wouldn't be able to make money from the photos taken of the christening. One photographer was even mocking another one because he was able to get access. It all comes down to money

Ughh.. I haven't seen that. I've heard that Richard has complained about stuff recently and made comments like "I guess they're fair game now"... Some grumbling is going on and there are coming more and more paparazzi shots of George. The floodgates would open if the brittish press would start publishing them...

Fair game? Richard should know William will not allow that. If they really want something to grumble about he can give that to them, like a lot less photo ops, and suing for any ensuing paparazzi pics.

As someone said on the last post it's the THANKS the Cambridge's get for giving and opening up the Christening to the public . The media coverage I have read has all been positive. I was more than satisfied with the coverage (except for the so called live feed from the Telegraph).

Bluhare, they can take photos in public sure, but if that gets to the point of harassment, and that seems to be the kind of situation indicated by Richards fair game now comment, then legal recourse is available. And William will not, in my opinion, utilize the courts to the max if necessary.As for photo ops William has provided.They could have christened both their children in the privacy of the palace (not unprecedented), they could have just released a press statement at the birth of their children (again not unprecedented), they could have taken George in the back door to visit his sister at the hospital, etc. My point is that since Diana's death the rules have changed. And I think the media will not bite off their nose to spite their face.

I don't think the rules have changed at all. The press is still the press. And phone hacking notwithstanding, they stay within the bounds of what's legal because they know that if anyone's going to go after them it will be William.

Now Kate I can see doing photo ops. One could argue the farm photos with George were just that.

I actually agree with you Bluhare.William would, if necessary, go after them with everything he's got.And Kate would probably be a tiny bit more inclined to grant photo opsbut William is coming around.

There's certainly no denying that Kate looks pretty. I'm glad she's gotten a haircut and didn't let it grow too long like she did after George was born. But like others have said we've seen this look before. It's great that she switched it up and wore some colour, but she already has dresses like this. Shorten the hem a bit and it's very similar to her red Alexander McQueen dress. I love the leopard print clutch, it's so fun and youthful. A look we rarely see on her. Which is sad because Kate is still young. There's a way you can dress youthful and still look conservative and classy. Kate's style is getting a little too predictable and boring for me now. If it get's to the point that people can guess what you're going to wear even before you wear it, like many have done before with Kate. It's time to switch it up. A pop of colour is great, now put some pretty heels with it. Add a great necklace. Do something, anything!

The only thing Kate is lacking is in accessorizing sometimes. She could really have fun with some of the more casual Royal Jewels, or accumulate even more fine Jewelry of her own to go with her outfits. I think she waits until she is gifted with fine jewelry rather than buy any herself. Her style of clothing is most always right on for her position and lifestyle. Just accessiring more could really enhance her already nice choices. this is all nothing though compared to the overall excellent job she is doing all around.

Totally agree, royalfan! I thought she looked perfect and was dressed appropriately. It was a tennis match, not the runway. I'm continually amazed at the critical comments. Appears to me she is a class act, a marvelous mother, and a fun and loving wife. Prince William is a smart man!

I'm not saying she she should have worn some massive diamond necklace, but a nice pretty simple piece. I think a long drop rope necklace would have looked fantastic with that dress.

I agree Royalfan, I love that Kate is wearing more of the midi length style dresses. They look great on tall women. I'm 5'10 and I have a few of them in my closet and they look great with heels or wedges.

And yes Maria I love the clutch as well. I wish she would carry it more, that's only the third time she's carried it. One of those times was previously at Wimbledon in 2012. I don't think it would kill her to wear some great leopard print or fun colour shoes. God even a pair of open toe shoes once in a while! Kate's shoe style is dull! I just think she's aging herself. I think Kate might have been born in the wrong decade lol.

Why thank you royalfan :)My only complaint is jeans! I'll find a pair that are the perfect length but then they're too big, or they'll be a perfect fit but too short lol. So now I stick to brands that have tall sizes, like J Brand. And my cousin who is about 5'0 likes to always ask me how's the weather up there! Lol.

That is funny Blair. I am 5'9" and up until the past few years finding jeans that were long enough was a challenge. Now just about any length goes so that helps. If my jeans are too short they just look like the new above the ankle ones.

It seems to me that one of the Cambridges is being groomed to take over from the Duke of Kent as President of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. The Duke is getting older and his health hasn’t been the best lately. None of the other younger royals have shown much love of tennis, so Will or Kate would be a natural choice when the Duke passes or retires from public engagements.

And as Charlotte mentioned, Kate might become patron, the Queen certainly hasn’t been an active one and it would be good to have a patron actually interested in tennis.

The Earl and Countess of Wessex have supported tennis much longer. Edward has a personal interest in the more historic version of the game, which he plays. He and Sophie met at a charity tennis match in 1993.

I think it more possible the Wessexes takes over his role since it involves more time spent at the courts and William and Kate can't have 2 whole weeks booked at Wimbledon every year later on in their royal career. So I think Kate taking up after the Queen would be better since that role is more honorary and flexible she can go alot and be there as a patron but also doesn't get blamed for not going all the time.

Edward, Sophie, the Kents, Camilla - anyone who shows up is associated with Wimbledon. Makes more sense to have Sophie and Edward do it as they've earned the honor. Just like Sophie being named to the fashion college. She's put in her time.

I don't think they'd have two royal patrons, although now that I type that I don't think there's a law against it. Kate may get her choice by virtue of seniority in the royal family (and I mean by title, not length of time).

It's not two patrons. It's like now where Duke of Kent (I think it is) has a presidential position and the queen some kind of patron position. So just substitute the Duke of Kent for the Countess of Wessex, and the Queen for the Duchess of Cambride.

I agree about the interest part. They are the most themselves at sport events. They're loose (and flirty!) when watching or doing sports. Not only is it fun for them, but it gives GREAT PR to see them enjoy each others company. After the "War of the Waleses", having them beeing seen a s a stable, happy couple is really important.

I see brooches being suggested alot, but to me (I'm not sayi ng it is) it's such an "old womans" accessory. I can't recall many younger people wearing brooches. Kate wears them when needed (the symbolic ones) but I can't see her wearing them "for fun". If people think pumps ages her, let's see what wearing brooches does!

I think the duchess has mastered the art of looking effortlessly chic at subdued events. She is obviously careful not to wear something too ostentatious so as to not detract from the actual event she is attending. She looks fabulous with the new bangs, she definitely has a new mommy glow.William and Kate always look so happy together, its superb to see how in love they are with each other :) The pic of William hugging the lady just brings tears to my eyes. He definitely has his mothers compassion.

I believe William will make an excellent king, yes. He will respect the traditional aspect of it, but he will also be very compassionate and relatable. In other words, very much the man Diana wanted him to be.

And Kate *is* looking more and more confident. The quiet wow-factor of this dress is perfect and I believe the bangs give her a lift. I like them.

Don't think Catherine has mastered the fine balance between too plain and "simple elegance" yet.Outfits like this are designed to let another fashion piece make a statement. Not happening in this case. This is why many of us think it looks "boring".Biggest blunder with this outfit is the fabric choice. Too stiff and rigid for a dressy casual look. And couldn't have picked a worse colour for a tennis match.

Maybe it's simply that she feels comfortable in it given she gave birth less than three months ago. She may prefer looser tummy things. Her focus seems to be less on clothes and more on her family, naturally.Just a thought.

She spends a lot of money on jewelry, she just buys small pieces. Her charm necklace is $18,000. Her multiple pairs of Kiki McD's are $3,000-8,000 per pair. Her multiple circle pendant necklaces are a few thousand each.

No offense, but I thought Andy looked a lot better than his wife. I thought the gown was ugly, or perhaps that didn't fit her properly. Her hairpiece and hair looked lackluster and the hairpiece strap showed too prominently. Not to be rude but that was my opinion of that, sadly. She could have looked so beautiful. I wonder who styled or didn't style her.

I like the red :-). I think we must accept that Kate is not a student anymore, she is a princess carefully living out her public role and this is portrayed in her more conservative style. If I may say I do not like the bangs - in the group photo it looks a bit untidy/unkempt - not sure what word to describe it with. I always wonder whether she will ever wear it shorter - shoulder length or just below the shoulders? Anyway, I like her! I also like her mother's shoes today :-) Lize

I think Kate would be a perfect patron for tennis! She already likes it and if the Queen doesn't, it seems to be a perfect match (pun intended folks! Ha!). I like the Mirabelle earrings with the red dress. It looks like she and William are having a wonderful time together at the game, good for them. Wills looks to be quite chatty (just like a husband: you finally get time to sit down and watch something you're interested in, and they want to TALK. Charlotte, take note ;)Lastly, to all the English on here: I am sorry for your loss on 7/7. I empathize with you, that feeling is awful.

Really don't care for the dress. It does nothing for her. She did nothing to jazz this outfit up. A necklace or a bracelet would have been. I understand her wanting to be seen as "normal" but enough already. I agree with the other people on here who said her style is becoming boring. I am sick of the nude pumps also. She has become dull and predictable. I actually like the countess of wessex style better sometimes. Her style is sometimes a big miss but at least she tries and Sophie has some curves and something on top. I think that Kate can take a page from her book.

Kate always looks lovely and while this is a lovely dress, I agree with some that it's a bit boring. Would love to see her in something a little less predictable. Her choices are just becoming increasingly basic and plain. Loved her Wimbeldon choices from a few years ago. Would love to see her take a few more fashion risks or style it up like Amal Clooney who always looks classy but with a bit more edge. That said, love and will always love Kate!

There was an article recently showing about eight outfits of Amal Clooney. Each outfit totaled up to between $3,000 to $12,000 or so. I had to read that more than once because I couldn't believe the costs of those outfits. These were "every day" outfits. She seldom wears the outfit twice. Are you sure you want Kate to dress like Amal? And I found some of those outfits silly, like she was trying to impress way too much.

Indeed, Martha! I kept wondering who the familiar looking lady in the green jacket was, and then I was shocked to realize Billy Jean King is close to my generation. The lady next to her is probably her partner in life.

Thought I'd add that Carole's dress s by a NY designer named Samantha Sung - an interesting choice for her as it's not widely available - but very flattering cuts (especially her shirt dresses such as Carole is wearing).

The Duchess looks remarkebly relaxed all over. I remember dark circles and deep wrinkles on William and Catherine after the birth of George. Little Charlotte seems to allows them a few more hours sleep at night. Also remarable how fast she gets back into shape after birth. Almost frightening for my understandig...William has exactly the same outfit on as on Charlotte's christening: the same dark blue suit, light blue shirt and the same red spotted tie. Women often give so much thought in their clothing (and Catherine for example is expected to do so). With men it is the other way round. Both sides have advantages and disadvantages...Other topic!Charlotte, thank you for your post. I am absolutely impressed how you manage your real private life and still are the first blogger after any sighting of Catherine! Thank you again for all efforts you make!

All good thoughts and honor to those affected by the 7 July terror attack I still have my shirt with the Union Jack and the caption. "We are not afraid". William was perfect, so touching.Great dress for Kate at Wimbledon today. Red is her color.

Do you think this dress could be from a previous Christmas lunch with the Queen? I know often times clothing is a guess with limited arrival photos. I also see Bear Grylls from the Scouts Association in the Royal Box. Her mint Mulberry is a favorite of mine!

All right, I'm going to be grumpy so be warned everyone:Yesterday was an amazing day. Ordinary people got off their trains and buses and walked to work to commemorate the terrorist attacks of 7-7-85 - attacks that not only killed and maimed people but cut to the core of London and the nation by attacking the transportation system. It was an attack designed to make everyone feel that they are never safe - even when they engage in the daily activities - and what the public was saying yesterday is that "we will not be afraid! We will remember and then keep going..."William attended the memorial and did brilliantly but the rest of the family was seriously underrepresented and there was no thinking outside the box about this event. No royal member got out of their car and walked. Where was the queen, Charles, Camilla and Anne?And the most noticeably absent of all was Kate. Most noticeably because she is young and this was an attack on the young; most noticeably because William was present and other people had their wives present and his was not; most noticeably because she is attending Wimbledon today, in brilliant red, flashing smiles - showing the man and woman in the street where HER priorities lieI'm not writing this apportion blame. I don't know who's terrible idea this was - although I'm certain it must be a decision made by the royal family because other wives attended and I don't believe for a moment that anyone outside the family told Kate she couldn't go had she wished to. All William had to do is say he wanted his wife present. But regardless of who made the decision - William and Kate are people in their thirties - they aren't teenagers. They are old enough to speak for themselves and to insist they be involved when appropriate.The royal family is at its best and strongest when it speaks to the heart of the people. The queen mum in the East End comforting people during the blitz. Diana followed in her footsteps. The nadir for the family was Diana's death. This limited involvement is very similar.Yes, maybe some might have criticised Kate had she gone - but as my mum would say, it's better to be criticised for doing too much rather than too little. When the queen mother got remarks for wearing furs when looking at bombing sites - she said she was putting on her best for the people. It is an example Kate would do well to follow. For whoever made the decision she will - and is being - blamed for not being there - especially when she was out today.

Yes, she looked fine today. I liked the red dress. A lot of attendees looked fine. I'm hard put to say today why Kate is different than any one of them. Not a princess or future queen but a pretty, terribly ordinary girl out having a good time without a care in the world.

I can see your point, and thank you for stating it in a nice fashion!! I think Kate is just a tiny part of the problem here and I don't like that she becomes (again!) the focus around the internet for the complaint when other royals don't get the same. I think she is more excusable in this case because of the (for lack of a better word) maternity leave. I agree that it's a bit of bad press with the wimbledon but I think she is allowed to have fun while on leave. The bigger problem for me is the more senior royals (Camilla, Charles, Phillip and the Queen). I don't know if they did other engagements but this was not a date that came as a shock, everyone could figure out that the 10th annniversry would have some events. Yes, Kate could have pushed for doing it, but the bigger problem is that stuff like that wasn't in the plans for the (more) senior royals. And of all people they sent the Duke of York to the church event!. it should AT LEAST have been Anne and/or the Wessexes. But still, the abstence of the Queen (maybe not so much depending on her general health nowdays) and the heir (mostly!) troubled me ALOT more than a woman 2 months after having a baby not being there.

I do understand where you're coming as far as the RF presenting a strong, united front. I can't dispute that. On the other hand, it *did* make William's role/participation that much more significant. Perhaps there was some thought behind it. I don't know, but it is possible.

I continue to feel very grumpy after William's truly tasteless and clueless joke about the tube strike. Having been the vitim of tube and rail strikes in the past - thank God, not this time, it is not funny and the only type of humour appropriate is gallows humour on the part of those affected.

For a rich man who is supposed ot represent his future subjects and who has every form of transportation available to him without so much as a queue and at considerable public expense sometimes - all I can say is I would like to dump him and Kate in Collindale during a tube strike at rush hour and tell them to find their way to Wimbledon without using anything but public transportation.

I hope the couple does something quickly to make up for this most unfortunate visit to Wimbledon.

Agree!The political innuendo's the royal family throw out at times is quite ridiculous.Pick and choose at their whimsy. Their staff also have a lot to learn about how to lift the family's public profile.The red dress is terribly inappropriate for the day, and even a tennis match. Can't miss someone in that colour!Carole's choice is far more suitable. Colour's right, cool and flowy for the temperature, lovely sandals.

I have to agree. I especially felt that William's 'joke' about the tube strike was in very poor judgement considering all of the circumstances of the memorial yesterday, Kate not being there, etc. I keep hoping for more from these two, not much more because I know Charles is next in line and not William, but just when I start feeling more kindly towards them they give me cause to wonder again.

I was actually glad that Kate did not go with William to the 7/7 commemoration. If she had, the focus would have been on her. As it was, the people most affected by the horrible bombs were at the center of everything, and William's hug of the young lady who made a poignant speech was deeply moving. I have read that he requested to be there, having been far away in New Zealand pm 7/7, and wishing to express his sympathy for the bereaved and injured. He commented that he understands loss.

The red dress is a bit shocking, especially after the white coat Kate wore to her daughter's wedding, but it is dramatic. Kate looked beautiful and energized. It is too bad that her visit to Wimbledon fell on the day after the 7/7 events, but I still believe she was right to stay away.

Prince Charles and Camilla are, by the way, in Wales for their annual official visit there.

Apparently the 7/7 memorial that William attended was not a Royal led event, It was "an event that was organized by the families and survivors themselves and the Duke was asked to attend and he was honoured to do so." (London Evening Standard). It appears that the Duchess was not invited to attend this event.

For my family 7/7 is personal. Two beloved young people were caught up in it and injured. A nephew on a gap year meeting up with his English cousin for a day out in London. Both have been left with mental, emotional and physical scars. But they also live life to the full because they know it can be snatched away at any second.

The English side of the family were at the 7/7 commemoration. They thought it was very moving and appropriate. They were not counting how may royal heads were there. Nor did the fact that the Duchess of Cambridge wasn't there cross their minds. They were invested in the events being commemorated and their own memories and feelings. and those of the other people there.

The photo of William hugging Emma Craig is one of those worth a thousand words. it speaks to empathy, caring, consolation. It helps. Unlike the sanctimonious comments here however well intentioned they might be.

In that situation, I don't think even Kate could steal the focus. I can even understand that she might have been afraid, given post pregnancy hormonal changes, of being too emotional. In that case, I think foregoing the tennis might have been a nice thing to do. If you can't do the hard work, you should step away from the easier aspects until you can.

There has been plenty of talk about how the royal family isn't paying much attention to the Tunisia victims either; I think Kate joining William on 7/7 would have gone a long way. It wasn't a funeral; it was a memorial and she could have supported her husband, and he her. I don't think showing people you care is ever a bad thing.

I agree with Julia too. I think it is a good example again how the looks are important. Somebody even suggested it was a private visit to Wimbledon, but why she is sitting in the royal box. Giving and taking, the amounts don't look equal.

I think as I said there is a much bigger problem that Kate is only a part of. Both the 7/7 commemorations and the tunisia thing has showcased that. The families aren't there! In the Netherlands and Spain we've recently seen the royals welcome home victims of different tradgedies and also shown up at the funerals/commemorations/memorials. But not the brittish. At the continental weddings and celebrations with the continental royals they send SSophie and Edward (though nice, not so high on the totem pole.) This started LONG before William and Kate were in the picture. The BRF has created a sort of distance between themself and both the general public but also their conterparts, meaning they have kind of isolated themselves. I understand why they did it when they started doing it, but Charles should have started reparing that. As of now they seem a little distanced all around and I think William and Kate's position is more a product of that than them distancing themselves. These are my thoughts.

Exactly bluhare, showing people you care is not a bad thing. Perhaps Kate should have watched tennis at home if she wasn't able to go to the memorial for whatever reason. Going to watch tennis the very next day in a 'look at me' red dress sends a bad message, even if it wasn't intended to do so.

If William asked to be at the remembrance and was invited alone, there is no more to be said.

As for the red dress, it could have been chosen to go with Sophie's white and William's blue, in honor of the fine British player on the court.

I wonder whether the British government is holding off on public marking of the Tunisia atrocity pending investigation. I was in Tunisia a few months before the revolution there, and I continue to be concerned about its people and its livelihood, which is mainly tourism.

Certainly the feelings of the families will be for their loved ones and that must always come first. I was terribly upset at the Afganistan memorial that some families felt too many seats were allotted to dignatarties and sponsors and not enough to them. Too often these days, that seems to happen. I'm very glad the families in Hyde Park were touched by William's very moving conduct and personal speech.

But I still do feel the family should - and must do better. Sending only Andrew to the St. Paul memorial seemed inadequate to me. It was as if he was chosen to give him a role. Why couldn't Charles and Camilla have adjusted their schedules to go. One of the most important roles of the royal family in my mind is to represent the heart of the nation - removing that role to some extent from the politicians - that is what separates Britain from countries that don't have royal families.

And I do feel Kate should have been at William's side. I would like to see her make the transition from a rarely appearing celebrity who does draw undue attention to someone whose presence is there to represent her nation. She could have dressed very plainly and not called attention to herself -and integrated herself in the same way Raina, Letizia and Maxima have done at times of national grief. All three women can be stunningly fashionable but when they shared themselves with civilians who had lost loved ones - it was clear they were expressing the emotions of everyone of their countrymen.

This is a hard subject to write about well. I was deeply touched by the spontaneous reaction of so many people finding ways to express the grief of a nation that was put under attack at its very core. But this is a blog about Kate and by extension the family she's part of - and there with the exception of William, who was most heartfelt, I was disappointed that their reaction was less than their subjects.

I'm not looking for new blogs to join - I've been reading this one almost from the start and read just a few others. Generally, I am the most ardent or royalists but I like to feel they walk in step with the nation. As far as Wimbledon. if Kate was not going to attend the memorial, I think she should have waited a few days more to attend Wimbledon and dressed in a less bold colour (but this is the girl who wore blazing pink to the 9-11 memorial. ) Watching her make faces and shake hands with celebrities, I felt she seemed very trivial. Certainly no one need worry about too many links to Diana at the moment. People mourned Diana for her empathy, giving, and instinctive feelings for people - not for her beauty and her clothes.

I do think there is something of that in William and that his feelings at the memorial were simple and genuine. (Although Harry.often gives of himself more easily.) But William's joke was extremely tasteless - damaging his reputation for being in touch with his future subjects by one silly act at laughing at ordinary people's misery. So it's not my best week with the royals but I'll leave it at that now, and hope for better in the weeks to come.

Rebecca, I couldn't agree more. The BRF *has* been rather distant or "out of the loop" for quite some time and fingers should not be pointed at W&K as if they are to blame. I can understand if the Queen doesn't appear at European royal weddings etc given her age, but in that case C&C should go in her place. Edward and Sophie may do a wonderful job in representing her, but their rank does send a signal that does not spell "significant event'". IMO! :)

And, even if the invite only had William's name on it, she could have requested to come as well. In that case, of course they wouldn't say "No, you're not allowed". But she clearly didn't do that either, because that is not where her priorities lay.

Now, even if she did want to and tried to go and they refused to permit her on the premises... why on Earth would she wear a screaming red, new, expensive dress, spiked heels, animal-print clutch, debut a new hairstyle etc at a sports game the next day?

Does she even think anymore?

Now, before I get yelled at for "being a hater" - bear this in mind: I actually see potential in Kate, and I know she can do more. I know she can be more than a silent clotheshorse. Her "fans" do not seem to see this, they seem to be perfectly content with her underperforming. If I were Kate, I would be offended by my own fans that they have such low expectations of me.

I would be shocked if anyone invited William to something without including Kate - it would be very rude when other wives were included - Except - I think there is most likely a consultation with the palace and/or with William and Kate's staff before an invite is issued. So I think this was all planned as it happened and Kate could have intended if she and William had wished.

I do basically agree with you Royalfan and Rebecca, I think there is a problem at the present time in the royal family. Their absence at Fabiola's funeral shocked me - and that's not something I would have expected William and Kate to attend - but someone should have. Sending Andrew was also an error. I put a bit more responsibility on William and Kate as they are adults and should be more in touch with public feeling since they have - in theory - more day to day exposure - but I think the problem is much larger than that and may be a result of a too aged monarchy and staff not thinking progessively enough.

Well, CMS, this fan does not feel as if she is content with anyone's underperformance. (A rather condescending statement actually...both towards Kate and her "fans".)

Perhaps I stop and THINK that this is all part of the game plan. Perhaps I understand that there is good reason to keep these two from becoming major players while a certain Edwardian couple is still waiting in the wings. Perhaps I remember that she is on maternity leave, whether her non-fans signed off on it or not. Perhaps I can appreciate that things are being done differently this time for a very good reason. It all points to lessons learned. Every bit of it. So it isn't a question of having low expectations, it has more to do with having an understanding of the big picture...combined with compassion and the ability to step back, take a breath, and realize that perhaps there is a method to what some consider madness.

By the way, your post has a familiar ring to it... Names are easy to change. Outlook not so much.

Julia, perhaps the staff is thinking as progressively as they are allowed to think. I suspect the most amateur PR person would want to have W&K out there as much as possible. I don't see it happening before Charles and Camilla have the keys to BP.

"Seeing the bigger picture" would be realizing that if HM passed away soon, Will and Kate are ill-prepared to become Prince and Princess of Wales, due to lack of experience. As well as recognizing that both the current monarch and the present heir have both said that the only way the monarchy remains relevant is if they are seen. Both are extremely hard workers.

I think her simplicity is so sophisticated. She's gorgeous. She looks like the princess she is. And I also like that the simplicity makes this easier to emulate for those of us who aren't, well, princesses. And... simplicity simply photographs better. A lot of stuff just looks cluttery, even if it's on someone as tall as she. Plus, her hair could not be more perfect. Damn.

Hmmm, boring? I had to get a second look at the pictures but still find the dress anything but boring. The cut of the dress is perfect – of course it is as it must definitely be bespoke. Secondly, the colour is remarkable, such a brilliant red. I think if Kate added more jewelry or any other accessories like a scarf or so, this would simply be too much. Apart from that Kate has the best things to offer to make such a dress look impressive, and that is her model-like figure, which makes me envious, and her beautiful hair. You just have to look at the picture where everyone stands in the Royal Box clapping their hands and you will notice that all eyes are on Kate. No one is really taking notice of Sophie, beautiful though she is, no doubt about that. But compared to each other Kate is the (more) striking woman, at least regarding her outward appearance.

I'm torn on the outfit, it's a lovely dress and she looks beautiful but it feels too formal for me - maybe it's the color or the fun clutch that gets lost in a sea of red. Now I'm not saying she should be wearing jeans but she had some very beautiful dresses that she has worn to other events that wouldn't feel as formal but would still be appropriate for the day.

As for the remembrance, I think it does show the connection that Prince William feels with people...very much how Diana was. The photo of him hugging that woman made me choke up a bit. It personalized it - it was two people connecting over a shared understanding of loss and grief. I'm an American and I know we're overly touchy and huggy which is why I'm always so baffled that it never looks as if the royal family ever touches each other. Those glimpses that we see from William & Kate...holding hands walking to church, the hug at the Olympics, etc are so heartwarming. It really makes them relatable and i hope they continue to raise Prince George and Princess Charlotte in this way...it's lovely to watch.

I've seen others complained it's to informal. Also, some said the hem is to old fashioned while others to trendy :P It's all about perception and where you're coming from!

(Ps. People complaining that Kate doesn't follow fashion enough, this is the kind of cases she does. The hemline is so IN and she uses a dress that is treandy but still won't look silly 20 years from now when looking at the pictures. And i think that is very clever!)

I love the cardinal red, but I wish she hadn't worn gold earrings with it. Too much brightness. Black or some other block colour would have been nice. Also the nude heels I am in agreement they are sooo bland. How about a nice black/white stripe or geometric pattern shoes which would have lifted the dress considerably. However, the style of the dress does suit her with her long waist, and she looked very relaxed in it, probably more important than something she isn't comfortable with.

I'm just glad Kate wore some color. I get really tired of shades of black and brown! Nice to see her again so soon after the Christening. I'm looking forward to the Christening pics and those few future engagements.

I think people may have an unrealistic expectation for how a woman we can assume will be photographed for the rest of her life will dress. British royalty seem to adopt public dress as a uniform, check out the Queen in her coat dress, pearls and brooch. But over her lifetime you can distinguish how her uniform changes in each decade, think of the skirt suits, dresses and turbans of the 70s. Too much change and their is no signature. They photograph for the future to look timeless yet of the moment. Even Princess Diana in her early married years bordered too much on the frills, she only turned into a sleek and modern dresser in the 80s and after her divorce. I think wisely Catherine will incorporate change slowly. Now she's going for ladylike elegance which looks fine and much better than a Hollywood yummy mummy. Samm Manila

Do you mean like the one that Kate wore to the christening? I enlarged the photo with Michael and Carole in it so that I could see the pendant better. It is not the same as the one Carole wore to the christening. Or is the Empress necklace different from that?

I am impressed by the look of compassion on William's face. He truly cares. The one who always dresses the same is William! Doesn't he have any other color suits than blue? He looks fantastic in them as he is an athlete but it's always the same. I think he would look great in tan because of his blond hair.

I thought the dress a bit formal for Wimbledon but it does seem as if everyone dresses for that. She probably has other things on her mind other than fashion now -- such as her new daughter Charlotte and George.

They looked like they were having a great time.

Yes we live in a changed world. 2001 and the aftermath changed our world for ever.

Daisy, I agree, it is good to see a bit of protocol. We've lost so much of that in the US. We wear jeans to church. I hope when the Queen goes Charles and William hold onto some of the traditions and protocols.

well I love the duchess of Cambridge style she could be excellent job if she be the tennis patron love zara and sophie of wessex style its nice to be seeing the duke and duchess having fun and I love the duchess and kim murray expression I think kim murray taking fashion tips from the duchess ...

I think the dress would have gotten more positive reviews if it was a different color (not Kate's fault since I think this is the only color option on the dress). It would be nice to see some different colors on Kate beyond red, blue, and neutrals. I know William made fun of Kate's yellow dress from Australia, but I loved that she tried something new. I know Kate and Carole have borrowed each others clothes and accessories. I would love to see Kate in Carole's green pattern shirt dress. I thought Carole's dress/sandal combo was more youthful than Kate's choice, but still age and event appropriate. I love green on Kate - I wonder if we'll ever see the DVF dress from the California visit and Zara's pre-wedding party.

Kate has reputation for thriftiness and I think its a good quality. "Normal" people have to recycle clothing. However, it always confuses me when Kate goes out and spends so much money on clothing that looks so similar to items she already owns. Why not invest in more variety. I don't intend this to be a criticism. I would like to hear what others think about it.

I had the same problem with this dress, she own similar, so why another? It is beyond me. Somebody suggested because of her current weight, she chose a new one. Which makes sense but in the past she went for the same items many times.

I think that the green dress doesn't fit her anymore. Back then she was the thinnest she's ever been and I think the reason we don't see her recycling the clothes she wore on their first tour is that they just don't fit anymore. Those were some of her best style choices but on the other hand I'm glad she's not just so thin anymore, it kind of looked unhealthy.

In this instance, I think she had to buy a few dresses in different sizes to accommodate her post-pregnancy body. The color, fabric and cut are purposeful to this end. As for why she does it other times -- I think she is a compulsive shopper, get satisfaction from buying things - or is it more proper to say she shops as a hobby?

So a logical response to why Sunday and Wednesday she wore similar outfits to things she already owns is because of size and fit - both her bodice and waist.

This has puzzled me too - giving new meaning to the "white coat syndrome".. She has two almost identical blue dresses (although one came in a very attractive alternative shade) two almost identical green coat dresses and a myriad of white coats, not to mention other things. It seems odd to me - and a bit wasteful.

I do think Kate cares a lot about fashion. She had a huge wardrobe before her marriage and rarely wore something twice and dressed with great imagination and taste for the first couple of years. I

I think she is trying now not to be seen as being so much about clothes - and yet still wants the fun of having new things and maybe that's why this happens. Most of us would say " that's lovely but I already have somethng too close to that..." but she doesn't have that worry.

Take a look back at Jacqueline Kennedy's wardrobe. Many of her dresses, gowns, and suits were similar in design, with the difference being in the color and fabric. It's classic and smart. Nothing wrong with that. Kate already has age and beauty on her side and she is wise not to push it just yet. :)

True, Royalfan, Jacke used similar shapes as did Diana, although with different colours and detailing. But Kate is using the same colour so the similarity is even more noticeable. I don't think she has enough consistancy in style to be likened to Jackie yet. Maybe in time when skirt lengths and styles have a unity.

Charlotte, I was So Tickled today (over here in the US) To wake up, get my breakfast & settle in for some "Early am Wimbledon 'Live' Coverage"!:) Then I opened my iPad, on a lark, to see if there might be something posted yet? You Already had a Full & Lovely Post, With some of The Best Pics of The Day!:) You are Amazing!:) There were only a handful of posts @ that time, but I was already picking up a vibe. Since I wanted to concentrate on The Tennis, I decided that I would Post @ the end of the day. I haven't yet read any of the other posts, beyond those first few, but after reading just those few, I felt the urge to start my post with 2 words..... "Jackie Kennedy"! I usually go with the flow, never being bothered by the variety of opinions re: Kate's Wardrobe & Sartorial Choices, but today it just bothered me. This falls into the "She can't win for losing" category! She gets criticized for not having enough variety or for not being more fashion forward....., yet she also gets criticized for being little more than a Royal Barbie Doll. I love that she neither appears to have that "need to please" attitude, nor the flip side of the "cat & mouse game" of "pushing the envelope, just to push the envelope",...... Both of which sadly Diana did. With Kate, I believe "what we see is what we get"! No games, no trying too hard! I'm sure her style will continue to evolve, as the years go by & she steps into new & different roles! Right now Her Style is "Current Understated Elegance" & I believe it works! I also believe, as with Jackie Kennedy, when she was First Lady, that Kate will ultimately go down in History, as one of "The True Lasting Fashion Icons" of our time! Whether it's Bespoke Designer or High Street Sale, I believe her sense of style is right on point! Cheers,Becca:)

I have to disagree. Jackie Kennedy was a fashion icon. I'm sorry but I do not think Kate Middleton is on the same level. Jackie took fashion risks. I know how strong the copy-Kate movement is, but I do not think Kate is changing the way clothes are worn on the same level as other icons have. There is nothing wrong with Kate not being a fashion icon. I don't think she wants to be one. I think she'd rather play it safe and wear what she likes than take big risks. She wants her impact to be what she does more than what she's wearing. You can have great style (and Kate does) but still not have a great influence on fashion. I also think the royal barbie doll criticisms come primarily from what Kate is doing (or not doing). If Kate was making more speeches or doing more public engagements, I think the focus would shift away from clothing.

Anon 17:35, I just posted a comment about this in another thread, but I do see the similarity...Kate, like Jackie in her day, seems to prefer simple, classic designs. I am not old enough to appreciate the "risk factor" on JK's part, but many of her clothes were similar in design.

My thoughts and prayers with the victims and their families as they remember such a horrible day and the beauty of the lives lost. I thought the words Emma Craig voiced were heartbreaking. She was very courageous to speak at the memorial. William seems to really connect with people and I'm sure the families greatly appreciated him being there and supporting them.

William and Kate looked fabulous together at Wimbledon! I loved the simplicity of Kate's look. The bright colored dress looked great! I also loved the Countess of Wessex's dress. Any idea on an ID? All the Royals looked lovely!

Congrats to Andy Murray on the win today and a great year! He looked so sharp on his wedding day and Kim Sears was a stunning bride. REALLY looking forward to seeing Murray/Federer on Friday. It will be a great match!

Since Kate was not invited to the memorial,I take back my comments about being so disappointed in her because she wasn't there.Again, William and Kate's pr team could very clearly, but diplomatically made that known. That was very important for them to do that I think.

I liked Kate's dress but felt it was a little plain but the colour lovely. Both she and William clearly thoroughly enjoyed their day at the tennis giving them a few hours with each other watching a sport they both enjoy playing as well.Not unexpectedly Kate has received quite a lot of adverse comments due to her not attending the 7/7 informal commemoration at Hyde Park with William I must admit I do think she should have gone and shown compassion for those involved. However I also think that William's very intimate embrace of the 24year old girl who spoke very movingly at the ceremony was out of place a small sympathetic hug would have been fine but what he did was totally over the top. Although it is only just over 9 weeks since Charlotte was born Kate looks far less tired than she did with George when she looked totally exhausted for several months and I have nothing against her publicly attending social events like polo, tennis etc. I do think that it would help her profile it she attended an occasional low key Charity or official Royal event. I think she has bridges to mend or she will lose public opinion .

I don't agree with you about the hug, Mary. Only a warm embrace could convey real, solid comfort to someone who had made the speech she made. Please note that there is information above that William expressed a desire to attend the commemoration of 7/7 since he was in New Zealand when the bombings happened. It seems he was invited alone,

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